Circus of Shadows: A Deadly Performance

Chapter 78: Behind the Veil: Freedom, Secrets and Arrests

As Detective Black made her way out of Dr. Rodrigo's trailer, her mind was consumed with the urgency of finding that elusive piece of evidence that could help place the mystery person. She didn't expect to bump into Luna and Sofia just outside the props truck, their faces etched with a mix of anticipation and curiosity.

"Detective Black, is everything alright? Are you following up on our lead?" Luna asked, her voice tinged with hope.

The detective paused, contemplating her next move. "Yes, I am. But it's crucial that we do this right," she replied, carefully choosing her words. "If you really want to help Felix, we need to find some evidence-something substantial. That's where I could use your discretion."

Luna and Sofia exchanged a glance, their determination palpable. "What should we look for?" Sofia inquired, ready to delve into the investigation.

"Anything out of place, hidden items, the long coat or hat, perhaps," Detective Black suggested. "We need to focus on finding something tangible that aligns with Dr. Rodrigo's sighting that night."

With a shared nod, the trio ventured into the props truck, scanning every nook and cranny, meticulously searching for any signs that might connect to the mysterious figure. They rummaged through props, costumes, and equipment, their determination fueling their quest for any elusive clue.

Detective Black carefully examined various items, her trained eye seeking anomalies or any tell-tale signs of concealment. Luna and Sofia diligently combed through the contents, their whispers echoing within the confined space.

"This could be it," Luna called out softly, holding up a long blanket that seemed oddly placed amidst the other costumes.

The detective approached, inspecting the blanket closely. It could look like a long coat, and its position raised some suspicion. "Good find," she acknowledged, feeling a flicker of anticipation.

As they continued their search, the atmosphere grew tense. Every item scrutinised, every corner examined, hoping for that crucial breakthrough.

As Detective Black, Luna, and Sofia combed through the props truck, their painstakingly search continued to lead them through an array of costumes, accessories, and equipment. They sifted through wardrobes containing vibrant costumes for various performers, scanned trunks filled with shoes, wigs, and props, meticulously seeking any discrepancies or items out of place.

Their exploration led them deeper into the truck, navigating past larger pieces of equipment-the aerial hoop, stilts, tram-pet, and even a unicycle. As they inspected each of these items amongst others, a surge of hope flickered within the detective as Luna and Sofia thoroughly scanned every nook and cranny, their determination unwavering.

Then, nestled amidst the equipment, the trio stumbled upon the iconic human cannonball contraption, and to their surprise, they noticed a long dark coat stuffed inside of it. Detective Black's heart quickened at the sight. She swiftly retrieved the coat, a surge of anticipation coursing through her as she held it in her arms. It felt significant, familiar even, and placed in such an unusual spot.

Realising the potential significance of this discovery, Detective Black knew immediate action was essential. With determination, she made the decision to rush the coat back to the forensic department for further analysis, hoping this would be the crucial piece of evidence needed to unravel the mystery.

"You continue on, but I need to get this to the forensics lab right away," she urged Luna and Sofia, a sense of urgency in her voice. "Don't raise suspicions so if anyone sees you, make your excuses and leave. This could be good news for your brother Sofia."

Their minds raced with anticipation, knowing that this unexpected discovery might just be the breakthrough they desperately needed in the intricate puzzle of Ralph Ortiz's demise. Detective Black, rushing through the circus grounds, made her way to the forensic department, eager to uncover the truth hidden within the folds of the mysterious coat.